In an unfair, discriminatory industry, it’s important to support all the amazing women who make music. This Women’s History Month, I want to recognize some of the women who are showing up on my Spotify queue. Not only are a number of these women making their mark in the music industry, but many of them are also causing a great social impact. Keep on reading to learn about my picks and the change they’re influencing outside of music.
- Rina Sawayama
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I have been listening to Sawayama for a few years now, so it makes me incredibly proud to see her blowing up and gaining notoriety. Her experimental and vibrant aesthetic is sure to grab your initial attention but you’ll want to stay for good once you hear how catchy her music is. Her earlier music serves a 90s girl group vibe, notable in songs like “Cyber Stockholm Syndrome” and “Ordinary Superstar.” Her recent album shows her branching out and trying out influences like heavy metal with “STFU!.” Besides making her mark as an Asian artist writing music for the Western market, she speaks up for minorities. Sawayama helped change the eligibility requirements for the BRIT Awards after not qualifying for any nominations despite living in the UK for 26 years.
- UMI
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UMI is an American singer and songwriter of half-Black and half-Japanese descent. There are traces of UMI’s ethnic background in her music with songs like “Sukidakara” and “That’s On You (Japanese Remix).” UMI’s dreamy vocals combined with nonfussy lyrics make for heaven to your ears. The words and lyrics seem to just roll effortlessly off her tongue, making you feel instantly calm and soothing as you listen to her. If you enjoy Neo-Soul and R&B, UMI is an artist you NEED to add to your playlist.
- Lolo Zouaï
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Lolo Zouaï is a French-born American singer with a unique R&B sound. Zouaï is relatively new to the music scene, with her debut album High Highs to Low Lows released in 2019, but it definitely is not one to be passed up. Zouaï mixes the French language, lo-fi, and English to create sensual melodies that would definitely set the mood if you know what I mean. Zouaï presents such a strong aura and presence in her music that she is someone I would love to see live in concert. If you’re a fan of Alina Baraz, then Lolo Zouaï is a new artist to check out.
- Ashnikko
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Ashnikko is an extraordinary singer, songwriter, and rapper, who’s easily recognizable by her bright blue hair. Like many artists, Ashnikko gained popularity and attention to her music after her songs went viral on the social media platform Tik Tok. Her songs “Daisy” and “STUPID” feat. Yung Baby Tate went viral after users began using the songs for video trends. Her lyrics are raunchy and explicit but contain a layer of women empowerment that makes you feel like a bad b*tch when you listen. You can’t help but want to shout out the explicit lyrics, no matter who is in the room. Her latest song to go viral, “Slumber Party” feat. Princess Nokia, is definitely a song I would caution playing out loud around your parents but the lyrics are so catchy it’s hard to stay quiet.
If you’re looking to discover new women artists, check some of these out! Each of these women is impressive in their own ways and it shows in their unique music styles. They’re crafting and sculpting their own artistry, which is leaving a mark beyond the music they make. They are highlighting representation in a number of ways between queer representation and biracial representation, and so much more.